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Every game is crucial down the stretch, with a number of massive outcomes in the fourteenth week that could settle play-off spots come the end of the year.

A 42-year-old Aaron Rodgers struck a significant blow to Lamar Jackson's play-off aspirations, while the Buffalo Bills quarterback all-but terminated Joe Burrow's hopes. At the same time, the Houston defense posed a huge problem and may have ended the Kansas City Chiefs campaign sooner than ever in the Mahomes tenure.

The Breakdown: Divisional Deciders Live Up To the Anticipation

A trio of critical rivalry games lived up to the hype.

Seasoned quarterback Rodgers, playing with a injured wrist, guided his team to a tough close win in on the road. He recorded his first rushing score in almost three years, however it was his deep passes to his top wideout that proved to be the deciding factor.

The Ravens' quarterback was off rhythm as his team failed to capitalize on key chances—though they were angry by a fourth-quarter touchdown being overturned. The two teams are scheduled to face off once more on the last day of the season.

In another, the longest-running rivalry in the league saw a classic encounter. Even with touchdown bombs, an exhausted defensive unit had to halt another fourth-quarter comeback from the visiting young quarterback in the frigid conditions.

This outcome gave one side a slender lead in their NFC North, while the losers fell from the conference's top spot all the way to outside the playoff picture.

Analysis: Where Has It Gone Wrong for the Chiefs?

Statistical models give the Kansas City only a 15% probability of making the postseason. In all likelihood, this could be the first missed post-season for star quarterback Mahomes—and the first such for the organization in a decade.

During his seven complete years as a starting quarterback, he has advanced to 7 conference championship contests and 5 Super Bowls. That indicates the club has played nearly each possible contest throughout his tenure.

Therefore, the causes for the current struggles are evident and were summed up during the recent defeat. Absences decimated an already dodgy offensive line, with several starters missing.

Even then, the quarterback gave his squad a chance, however missed kicks and critical dropped passes—including on a key fourth down play—sealed their downfall.

Spotlight: Is the Super Bowl Be Heading for the West?

A pair of top contenders from the western conferences are building strong arguments for championship favorites.

One squad, leading their conference, claimed the most recent title held at this year's stadium. They are built on a stifling defence that tops the NFL in quarterback takedowns and victories through methodical, time-consuming possessions.

The other team, atop the other conference, demonstrated an explosive offense capable of putting points on the board from any situation. They feature a formidable ground attack to complement an elite passing attack.

The question would be whether the potent offense can solve the relentless pressure of the elite defense—what would be a must-watch playoff matchup.

Talking Point: Travis Kelce Considering Calling It Quits?

Among the aftermath from the Kansas City's loss, remarks from the quarterback about his star teammate sparked rumors about a possible retirement.

Listening to Mahomes say, "each year... I try to cherish since you never know" certainly seemed like the QB was preparing for the veteran to call it a day.

"He will have the option to do what he chooses to do following this campaign," he continued. Should the year concludes early for the Chiefs, the three-time Super Bowl veteran might choose to walk away.

Looking Ahead: Buffalo vs. Patriots Headlines the Upcoming Slate

The Bills' quarterback put on a show again for his team in a snowy victory. He threw 3 scores and rushed for another, responsible for a remarkable portion of his offense's total touchdowns this season.

He is the first player in NFL annals with 3,000 passing yards, twenty TD throws and 10 running touchdowns in 3 straight campaigns.

Next, he puts the Bills on his back once more as they aim to chase down their AFC East foes, the New England Patriots—and, they are precisely who they play next.

Major Upcoming Week Games:

• Bills @ New England Patriots
• Lions @ Los Angeles Rams
• Packers @ Denver Broncos
• Chargers @ Kansas City Chiefs

This Week's Stats, Records & Notes

• A kickoff return for a 100-yard score—the biggest scoring play of the year—sparked a scoring blitz for one offense.
• A prolific wide receiver caught two scores and remains tracking for a historic 2,000-yard receiving.
• A dominant defensive end recorded his twentieth QB sack of the season, moving within reach of the single-season record.
• An international placekicker helped his team in a surprise win in rainy weather.
• A team that was shutout one game bounced back with a shutout of its own the following week.
• A struggling franchise saw its star QB come back from an elbow issue, only to leave the contest once more with a similar ailment.